Asura
Asura (Sanskrit: असुर) are a class of beings in Indian religions. They are described as power-seeking beings related to the more benevolent Deva (also known as Sura) in Hinduism. In its Buddhist context, the word is translated as "titan," "demigod," or "antigod".
According to Hindu texts, the Asura are in constant fear of the deva. Asura are described in Indian texts as powerful superhuman demigods with good or bad qualities. In early Vedic literature, the good Asura are called Aditya and are led by Varuna, while the malevolent ones are called Danava and are led by Vritra.
In the earliest layer of Vedic texts, Agni, Indra and other gods are also called Asura, in the sense of their being "lords" of their respective domains, knowledge and abilities. In later Vedic and post-Vedic texts, the benevolent gods are called Deva, while malevolent Asura compete against these Deva and are considered "enemy of the gods".
Asura are part of Hinduism along with Yaksha (nature spirits), Rakshasa (fierce beings or demons), Bhuta (ghosts) and many more. Asura have been featured in many cosmological theories and legends in Hinduism and Buddhism.
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